Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) —  Rotary District 6880 has a new leader in the wings. Penny Hughey was unanimously elected District Governor Nominee at the organization's Annual Multi-District Conference. The conference took place over Memorial Day weekend in Opelika, Alabama. In her new role, Hughey will help shape the future of Rotary across the southern half of the state.

The conference took place over Memorial Day weekend in 2025 in Opelika, Alabama. Hughey's election was unanimous, reflecting strong support from district leaders. Her term as District Governor Nominee will prepare her for an even larger leadership role in the years ahead.

Rotary District 6880 spans a wide stretch of Alabama. The district includes 46 Rotary clubs, ranging from the Montgomery metropolitan area to the Alabama Gulf Coast. It is home to nearly 1,800 Rotarians who serve their local communities and support humanitarian causes worldwide.

Incoming District Governor Steve Weaver praised Hughey's selection. "Penny is a vital part of our district's Rotary evolution," Weaver said. "As district leaders seek innovative ways to share Rotary's incredible work, both locally and globally, Penny's leadership will be instrumental in welcoming new members and helping our district continue to grow and thrive."

Hughey is no stranger to Rotary leadership. She previously served as President of the Rotary Club of Gulf Shores, Orange Beach. Before becoming president, she served as the club's Membership Director. During that time, she helped lead a fourfold increase in club membership. Her efforts earned her the title of Rotarian of the Year in 2023.

Her leadership roles continued to grow from there. In 2025, she was appointed Assistant District Governor for Area 11, which gave her even more experience in club development and district-level leadership. Throughout her Rotary career, she has demonstrated a strong ability to build relationships and bring new members into the fold.

Hughey's work extends well beyond Rotary meetings. She currently serves as Director of Community Development at Lee Charities, Inc. In that role, she partners with nonprofit organizations across Baldwin County to help them grow stronger and serve more people. Her day-to-day work brings Rotary's core value of "Service Above Self" to life.

Her background in community leadership runs deep. While working with the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber, she created several well-known leadership programs, including the Coastal Alabama Leadership League (CALL) and Junior Leadership of Coastal Alabama. She also helped form and lead Lower Alabama Young Professionals, a group focused on developing the next generation of civic and business leaders.

Those experiences give her a unique lens for her work in Rotary. She hopes to use what she has learned to open new doors for young professionals who want to get involved. Her goal is to help them find opportunities for leadership, networking, and making a difference in their communities.

Hughey's commitment to service dates back to her college days. She earned her undergraduate degree at Presbyterian College, where the school's motto — Dum Vivimus Servimus — left a lasting impression. The Latin phrase means "While We Live, We Serve." That idea has guided her personal life and professional career ever since.

Hughey expressed genuine excitement about what lies ahead. "I am honored to be elected to this position and excited about the opportunities ahead," she said. "I look forward to strengthening membership, expanding service opportunities, and helping Rotary continue to make a meaningful difference in communities across our district."

District leaders believe Hughey is the right person to help Rotary grow in South Alabama. They see her as someone who can connect with communities, inspire new members, and foster a culture of service and fellowship. Her election comes as Rotary focuses on expanding local projects and growing clubs of all sizes.

Anyone interested in joining Rotary District 6880 can find a club serving communities from Montgomery to the Gulf Coast. The district welcomes people from all backgrounds and professions. Members can connect, lead, serve, and grow through shared values and community engagement.